Teeth extraction is a popular procedure in dentistry, but also the most feared. When a tooth gets broken or damaged due to trauma or infection, the dentist will attempt a repair with a dental crown, filling or root canal treatment. However, the damage or infection may be so severe that the only alternative is to remove the tooth. Generally, the dentist will try to save the tooth initially and use tooth extraction as the last resort.
The following are important points to know about the tooth extraction procedure:
Contrary to what many people believe, tooth extraction is not a dangerous procedure and does not worsen infections. However, the dentist will administer local anesthesia and use special techniques to make the procedure as painless as possible. In the absence of other alternatives, tooth removal is the most effective way to eliminate infected teeth and prevent further spread of decay and infection to the gums and jawbone.
Before the procedure, the dentist will perform an x-ray of the problematic area to plan the tooth removal process. Patients will need to provide their health history, current or past ailments and current medications. If a wisdom tooth is the culprit, a panoramic x-ray will be taken, which captures the image of the entire teeth in one shot. The dentist will be able to see vital things like:
The dentist will use anesthesia to numb the site in simple extractions. They will then use a dental tool to separate gum tissue from the affected tooth. A drill or laser may be used to reach the deeper parts of the tooth. After achieving the desired level of tooth movement, the dentist will use forceps on the tooth to loosen the tooth out of its socket. The area will be cleaned thoroughly to ensure no fragment or infected tissue remains in the socket. The dentist will wash the area using a sterile saline solution and place stitches to restore the gum tissue to its proper position.
Usually, the dentist will recommend applying an ice pack on the extraction site. The patient may get a prescription for pain medication if required and will need to return to the dental office after a week for a checkup. Healing takes about two to three weeks, during which the patient might have to avoid certain foods. Hard foods such as nuts and chips should be avoided in the first 24 hours. Soft foods such as yogurt and smoothies are advisable. If pain persists despite using painkillers or infection, swollen jaws or fever occur, the patient must contact the dentist immediately for an appointment.
The dentist might recommend tooth extraction if the patient has irreparable tooth decay, fractures or rot, bone loss around the tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth. The primary aim is to provide relief from the symptoms and prevent further spread of infection.
If you are a candidate for tooth extraction, you can talk to the dentist about the procedure and possible dental restoration options.
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